Terrarium Care & Maintenance
Your terrarium is designed to be low maintenance.
A properly established enclosed terrarium is a small, self-sustaining ecosystem. The sealed glass environment allows moisture to evaporate from the soil and plants, condense on the glass, and return to the substrate. Because of this natural water cycle, your terrarium should need very little watering.
The best thing you can do for your terrarium is often to leave it alone and let the ecosystem do its work.
Where should I keep my terrarium?
Place your terrarium somewhere with bright, indirect light. A bookshelf, coffee table or bedside table in a bright room can all make great spots. Terrariums are generally hardy and can tolerate varying levels of light, so there is no need to find the brightest spot in your home.
The main thing to avoid is excessive heat and direct sunlight. A sealed glass terrarium can heat up surprisingly quickly in direct sun, creating a greenhouse effect that can scorch plants and cause excessive condensation.
Do I need to water my terrarium?
An enclosed terrarium should only need occasional watering because moisture is recycled within the closed environment. Only use distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral accumulation on the glass. Look for a light layer of condensation on the glass, particularly in the morning. This indicates that moisture is circulating through the terrarium. If the glass remains completely clear and the substrate looks dry, add a small amount of water.
If your terrarium has a porous lid such as cork or is not completely airtight, it may need additional care. Signs to look for:
Leave it be
Light condensation on the glass + moist substrate: leave it alone.
A small top-up
No condensation + substrate beginning to dry: add a small amount of water.
Hold the water
Heavy condensation covering the glass or visibly wet/soggy substrate: don't water and allow it to dry slightly.
Does my terrarium need fresh air?
Terrariums generally do not need outside air circulation. When enclosed, the plants and microorganisms inside the terrarium naturally exchange gases within the enclosed environment. During the day, plants use carbon dioxide for photosynthesis and release oxygen, while at night they use oxygen and release CO₂. This natural cycle helps maintain the air within the terrarium.
If the glass is heavily fogged for several days, or you notice mould or other signs of an unhealthy environment, remove the lid for a few hours to allow fresh air to circulate before replacing it. During hot weather in Perth, check your terrarium more frequently, particularly if it is kept in a warm room or receiving strong light.